Ram range expands with new 3500

RAM has updated its 2017 model year pick-up range with the introduction of a cheaper 3500 that does not require a truck licence to operate and a RamBox option on its 2500 for increased storage capacity.

Although pricing remains the static across both 2500 and 3500 Laramie models at $139,500 before on-roads and $146,500 respectively, the new entry-level 3500 will undercut its flagship sibling by $2600 to come in wearing a $143,900 sticker price.

To make the 3500 viable on a standard driver’s licence, Ram has dropped the maximum payload from 1713 kilograms to 894kgs, while the max towing weight remains the same at 6171kgs.

According to Ram Australia general manager Alex Stewart, the more accessible 3500 is “aimed at creating a version of the Ram 3500 Laramie that is a superb platform for use with fifth wheel and gooseneck towing and which may be driven on a normal driving licence”.

“This is thanks to all the existing Ram towing advantages combined with the leaf spring suspension in the 3500, compared to coil set-up in the 2500, to produce a strong and stable towing platform,” he said.

The 2017 changes also sees the introduction of an optional RamBox storage system for 2500 models, which will cost $3400 and bring prices up to $142,900.

Measuring 152cm long on each side, the new storage spaces are situated along the rear flanks of the tray, embedded into the guards.

Each box can swallow 243 litres each and feature a 90-degree opening lid, as well as being weatherproof, lockable and having its own lighting.

Ram claims that the boxes are large enough to swallow a wide variety of objects including a set of golf clubs, helmets, kayak paddles, fishing rods and even chainsaws, while also featuring drain holes for use as a drinks fridge.

The addition of the RamBoxes also adds an adjustable and lockable bed divider system in the rear tray, meaning compartments can be customised to a certain size and load can be separated from each other.

Finally, the RamBox system also adds a sliding cargo rail system for adjustable tie down points.

Ram says its bespoke storage system is a “flexible, easily accessible, versatile and secure storage space and, at the same time adds a load area bed divider”.

Mr Stewart said Ram expects the majority of customers buying a 2500 truck will opt for the RamBox storage system and its versatility is a boon for the brand.

“Having convenient, secure storage for your gear – whether it is worksite tools, sporting equipment or ice cold slabs of refreshments for the team – make RamBox one of the greatest innovations that you’ll find on a pick-up truck,” he said.

In addition, Ram has also included a second microphone across all models for clearer phone calls, stating that “the change has been made to ensure that the front seat passenger has the same voice clarity as the driver, despite width of the interior of the Ram truck”.

New 275/70 tyres are also fitted to the 18-inch wheels on both 2500 and 3500 models with the aim to reduce road noise.

Powering both 2500 and 3500 models is a 6.7-litre turbo-diesel straight-six engine, producing 276kW of power and a mountainous 1084Nm of torque.

The powerplant is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with standard features across both variants including exhaust brakes, an almost two metre long tray, ventilated front seats, dual-zone climate control, heated steering wheel, sunroof and nine-speaker audio system.

2017 Ram 2500 pricing*

Laramie (a)	$139,500
Laramie with RamBoxes (a)	$142,900

*Excludes on-road costs 2017 Ram 3500 pricing*

Laramie - car licence (a)	$143,900
Laramie - truck licence (a)	$146,500

*Excludes on-road costs